Question

What is the function of placenta?

Answer 1

Placenta:

1. The placenta is the structural and functional connection between the mother and the growing fetus.
2. It is formed by the interdigitation of chorion with the uterine tissue.

Functions of the placenta:

1. The placenta passes on the nutrients from the maternal blood to the fetus.
2. Oxygen is passed from the maternal blood to the fetus, and carbon dioxide is passed from the fetus to the maternal blood, so the placenta helps in gaseous exchange.
3. Placenta also carries out the disposal of excretory wastes from the fetus.
4. Placenta also stores glycogen, fat, etc.
5. The placenta acts as a barrier to allow the passage of only valuable substances to the fetus.
6. The placenta secretes certain hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, human chorionic gonadotropin, and human placental lactogen, which are needed for the maintenance of pregnancy and increased metabolic demands of the mother.